Paul Arkison of the GMB Trade Union said at the time: “The recycling centre in Dreghorn is a popular and important community service for the people of the village and surrounding area.”

Now the dump is set to close at the end of March, the nearest facility for residents will now be Bartonholm.

Union leader Paul Arkison at Dreghorn Recycling Centre with a petition to keep it open (Image: Steve McKendrick)

A North Ayrshire Council spokesman said: “The site was due to close in 2017/2018 but the move has been brought forward to help make essential savings over the next financial year.

“Despite the closure at the end of March this year, North Ayrshire Council will still have four active sites – which equates to one site per 34,500 residents – which is well above the national average and statutory requirements.

“The original decision to close the centre in Dreghorn was taken in December 2014.

“It was calculated that this would help the Council meet necessary efficiency savings of £85,000 per year, while still providing accessible recycling facilities at the nearby Bartonholm site.”